Experience and Utility of Using the Participatory Research Method, Photovoice, in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2018 · DOI: 10.1310/sci17-00006 · Published: February 12, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Patient Experience Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores the use of photovoice, a method where people share their views through photos and stories, with Veterans who have spinal cord injuries/disorders (SCI/D). It looks at what it's like for them to use this method and how helpful it is. Veterans took pictures of things that showed what helps them do what they want, what stops them, and how they adjust. Then, they talked about what the photos meant to them. The study found that even though there were some difficulties, the Veterans liked being involved, felt included, and hoped their experiences would help others with disabilities.

Study Duration

4 weeks

Participants

9 US Veterans with SCI/D

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Participants discussed challenges with taking photographs, but they enjoyed participating, appreciated inclusion, and hoped the information they provided would help others with disabilities.
2
The study identified key themes such as function, participation, individual/patient context, quality of life, and experiences with photovoice, highlighting the breadth of information achievable through this method.
3
Participants felt that the photovoice project revealed adjustments they were making and helped them feel accomplished.

Research Summary

This study examined the feasibility and experiences of using photovoice methodology with Veterans with spinal cord injuries/disorders (SCI/D). The findings suggest that photovoice is a feasible and desirable method for engaging individuals with SCI/D in research, providing them with an opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences in a novel way. The study highlights the rich data that can be gathered through photovoice, including insights on function, participation, quality of life, and the overall patient experience, which can inform future health care improvements and interventions.

Practical Implications

Informed Healthcare Improvements

The study's findings can inform future healthcare improvements tailored to the patient-centric needs of individuals with SCI/D.

Program Evaluation

Photovoice methodology can be used to evaluate programs focused on enhancing the patient experience and identifying barriers to care for individuals with SCI/D.

Disability Advocacy

The partnerships fostered through photovoice can be harnessed to engage SCI/D community members in advocacy initiatives to improve patient outcomes and address their needs.

Study Limitations

1
The small sample size may limit generalizability to the broader population of individuals with SCI/D.
2
The inclusion of only Veterans with SCI/D may also limit generalizability, although the findings are believed to be applicable to persons with SCI/D at large.
3
The lack of group discussions of the photographs to stimulate further engagement among participants is a limitation that should be considered in future research.

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